Sometimes Therapy Is Awkward: A Collection of Life-Changing Insights for the Modern Clinician by Nicole Arzt
Note: Most links are affiliate links which means we make a small commission without costing you anything extra. You can learn more here. In this case, the author sent me a complimentary copy to review but all opinions are my honest thoughts about the book.
Summary
Sometimes Therapy is Awkward is a brand new book perfect for new therapists. Nicole Arzt addresses the issues we face as we enter the field with humor and vulnerability. This book covers everything from preparing for your first session, to coping with burnout, and stepping into the identity of a therapist. It’s like a modern version of The Gift of Therapy.
About the Author
Nicole Arts is a LMFT with a wide range of experience in settings ranging from inpatient rehabs to private practice. She also helps other therapists with copywriting and SEO through her side hustle, Soul of Therapy. You probably know her best from her phenomenal Instagram account @psychotherapymemes. One of the items on this year’s Holiday Gifts for Therapists list came from her Psychotherapy Memes website, which you can find HERE.
What We Loved
This is one of the most honest therapy books I’ve read. I rank it up there with Bad Therapy as a book I want new therapists to read as they get their footing in our field. Nicole points out that many books by and for therapists give examples so perfect they don’t feel real. She goes out of her way to share cases and therapeutic experiences that are vulnerable and don’t always end well. She sets a realistic standard and gives advice that is completely practical.
What We Didn’t
There were a couple spaces where it seemed like the early career advice given was more local than general. As always, know the regulations where you see clients and follow those.
Find more books for early career therapists HERE.
Clinical Use
I would highly recommend Sometimes Therapy is Awkward, especially to grad students and early career therapists. The bulk of the book is geared towards those starting off as therapists and this is definitely one of my favorite books for that crowd. You could read it at any stage of your career though and there are a few chapters towards the end on burnout and boundaries that are wonderful for everyone.
Get your copy of Sometimes Therapy is Awkward HERE.
If you know of another book we need to review, let us know about it here or tell us about it in the comments. Make sure you’re also following The Therapist’s Bookshelf on Facebook and Instagram.
Many therapists enjoy recommending books to their clients to supplement the work they are doing together. We also use books to help ourselves grow as people and practitioners. Remember though that books are never a replacement for real human connection or for therapy when it’s needed. If you find yourself needing a therapist, a great place to start is Psychology Today. If you are having thoughts of hurting yourself or someone else, please contact the National Suicide Prevention Hotline.
